Summer is in full swing and that means one thing: your air conditioning is working overtime. If you want to keep your home cool and comfortable, it's important to keep your cooling system up and running properly. Here are six tips to help you do just that.

Keep up with regular inspection

One of the best ways to keep your cooling system running smoothly is to have it inspected regularly. By having a professional come out and take a look at your system, you can identify any potential problems early on and get them fixed before they become bigger issues. The seasoned air conditioning service providers behind https://www.bluewaterclimatecontrol.com suggest that you have your system inspected at least once a year, preferably in the spring before summer kicks into gear. This way, you can be sure that your system is ready to handle the heat.

Change your air filter

Another simple but important tip is to change your air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can make your system work harder than it needs to, which can lead to higher energy bills and premature wear and tear. Fortunately, changing your air filter is a quick and easy task that you can do yourself. In this case, all you need to do is to check your system's manufacturer recommendations and then purchase the appropriate filter. Once you have the new filter, simply remove the old one and pop the new one into place. Most filters should be changed every three months, but be sure to check your system's owner's manual for specific instructions.

Check your ductwork

If you have central air conditioning, it's important to check your ductwork periodically. Leaky or damaged ducts can cause your system to work harder than it needs to, which can lead to reduced efficiency. In this case, you'll want to have a professional come out and take a look at your ductwork. They can identify any problems and make the necessary repairs to ensure that your system is running as efficiently as possible. For instance, if your ductwork is leaky, they can seal the leaks to prevent cool air from escaping.

Make sure your vents are open

It's also important to make sure that all of your vents are open and unobstructed. If your vents are blocked, it can cause a build-up of pressure in your system, which can lead to damage. To avoid this, simply take a look at your vents periodically to make sure that they're clear. You may need to move furniture or other items out of the way to ensure that the vents are completely open. You may also want to vacuum the vents periodically to remove any dust or debris that may have built up over time. In this case, make sure to turn off your system before you start cleaning the vents.

Keep your outdoor unit clean

To keep your system running efficiently, it's important to keep the outdoor unit clean. Remove any debris that may have accumulated around the unit and make sure nothing is blocking the airflow. You should also trim back any plants or shrubs that may be growing too close to the unit. In this case, you'll want to be careful not to damage the unit when trimming back vegetation. As much as possible, you'll want to keep the area around the unit clear so that it can operate as efficiently as possible. By doing so, you can help to extend the life of your system.

Be mindful of your thermostat

Last but not least, be mindful of your thermostat settings. If you set your thermostat too low, your system will have to work harder to cool your home. Instead, try to set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature and then leave it alone. In this case, 78 degrees is often cited as a good target temperature. Keep an eye on your energy bills as well. If you notice that your energy bills are increasing, it may be time to have your system serviced. More often than not, an increase in energy usage is an indication that your system is not running as efficiently as it should be. It can also indicate that your system needs repair.

These are just some of the things you can do to keep your cooling system up and running. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your home stays cool and comfortable all summer long. Rest assured that with a little bit of care, your cooling system will be able to keep up with even the hottest days.